At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead daily operations at a luxury hotel, ensuring top-notch guest experiences.
- Company: Join a celebrated boutique five-star hotel in the southeastern US.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, performance bonuses, and comprehensive health coverage.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to exceptional service and growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a hands-on leadership role with creative freedom.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in luxury hospitality with strong leadership and financial skills.
The predicted salary is between 150000 - 165000 £ per year.
A celebrated, boutique five‑star luxury hotel in the southeastern United States is seeking a Director of Operations to serve as its second‑in‑command. This is a rare opportunity to join a boutique, entrepreneurial environment where you’ll have real influence over strategy, culture, and guest experience, without the layers of bureaucracy found at big‑box or large corporate‑backed hotels. Reporting directly to the Managing Director, the Director of Operations will oversee all day‑to‑day operations across Rooms, Food & Beverage, and Culinary, with dotted‑line alignment across every other operational function. This is a hands‑on leadership role: you’ll need to be both a strategist and a doer.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide strategic and day‑to‑day leadership across all hotel operations, ensuring every guest touchpoint reflects five‑star, luxury standards.
- Personally engage with VIP guests, owners, and strategic partners as needed.
- Champion a culture of exceptional hospitality, accountability, and continuous improvement.
- Partner with culinary and restaurant leadership to elevate dining experiences.
- Recruit, mentor, and develop a high‑performing leadership team, building succession pipelines.
- Manage operational budgets, labor plans, and departmental financial performance.
- Partner with Finance and Revenue Management to drive profitability and forecasting accuracy.
- Oversee cleanliness, preventive maintenance, safety, and regulatory compliance standards.
- Evaluate capital improvement opportunities and support long‑range strategic planning.
- Monitor guest feedback and ensure service recovery processes resolve challenges effectively.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
- 10+ years of progressive leadership experience in luxury hospitality, including executive‑level operational responsibility.
- Prior experience as a Director of Operations, Hotel Manager, Executive Assistant Manager, or equivalent role within a Forbes Five‑Star, AAA Five‑Diamond, or comparable luxury property.
- Demonstrated success leading Rooms, Food & Beverage, and Culinary operations together.
- Strong financial acumen, including budgeting, forecasting, labor planning, and operational analytics.
- Proven ability to lead in a boutique, independent, or entrepreneurial environment.
- Exceptional communication, coaching, and relationship‑building skills.
Preferred Qualifications
- Background at luxury independent or boutique properties.
- Experience with hotel‑specific systems.
- A track record of building and mentoring succession‑ready leadership teams.
Compensation Information
- Base salary: $150,000–$165,000, commensurate with experience.
- Performance based bonus.
- 401(k) with employer match.
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage, plus voluntary health plans.
Director of Operations - Hospitality in Newport employer: Keller Executive Search
As a Warehouse Manager with our client, you will join a dynamic team that prioritises operational excellence and employee development. The company fosters a supportive work culture, offering competitive salaries, performance-related bonuses, and comprehensive benefits including private healthcare and training opportunities. Located in a vibrant area, this role not only provides a chance to lead a dedicated workforce but also encourages continuous improvement and innovation within warehouse operations.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Operations - Hospitality in Newport
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Keller Executive Search. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Keller Executive Search
Don't be shy about reaching out to Keller Executive Search directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Operations - Hospitality in Newport
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Keller Executive Search and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Keller Executive Search
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
